Smart Meters Declared Safe, Critics Still Worry

Critics of the new “smart meter” technology say they could pose possible health risks.But Maine’s top doc says they are safe.Maine’s smart meters contain small antennas that transmit data wirelessly to Central Maine Power’s headquarters in Augusta.Some say they are opposed to the new technology because federal safety guidelines do not address the effects of long-term exposure to these types of radiowaves.Maine public health director Dr. Dora Anne Mills says she has studied information provided by C.M.P. as well as opponents of the smart meters.Dr. Mills concluded that the “smart” meters are not a threat to the health of customers, because their operating frequency and power range is similar to the wireless routers that people use for home computers.